Laboratory employees provide school supplies for Northern New Mexico kids

Los Alamos National Laboratory’s 2026 Back to School Drive made a meaningful difference for 2,000 elementary and middle school students across Northern New Mexico. Donations totaled $46,582, helping expand support for local children and families facing financial challenges as school begins.

"As the cost of school supplies continues to rise, many families face difficult decisions about how to provide children with the tools they need to succeed in the classroom," said Tina Moore, who organized the drive through the Laboratory’s Community Partnerships Office. "The generosity of Lab employees means students begin the school year with the supplies and resources to help them learn, participate and feel included alongside their classmates."

Rising back-to-school costs continue to place a strain on many families. These backpacks, notebooks, pencils and other essential supplies help children walk into the classroom with the same opportunities as their peers — and show them that their community believes in them and cares about their success.

Where the backpacks go

The following schools and school districts will receive backpacks and school supply kits: 

• Chama Valley Independent Schools
• Cuba Independent School District
• Española Public Schools
• Jemez Mountain Public Schools
• Jemez Valley Public Schools
• Los Alamos Public Schools
• McCurdy Charter School, Española
• Mesa Vista Consolidated Schools
• Mora Independent Schools
• Pecos Middle School
• Pojoaque Valley School District
• Questa Independent School District
• San Diego Riverside Charter School, Jemez Pueblo
• San Ildefonso Day School
• Taos Day School
• Te Tsu Geh Oweenge School, Pueblo of Tesuque

School nurses, teachers and counselors identify which students will get backpacks based on the students' individual needs and circumstances.